UK graduate named as influential business leader

Jonathan Mildenhall, chief marketing officer at AirBnB, was one of 30 individuals selected at the Annual Accreditation Conference in Minneapolis

Written by Carl Palmer
18/10/2016 09:56 AM

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FINE EXAMPLE: Jonathan Mildenhall

JONATHAN MILDENHALL, a graduate of Manchester Metropolitan University Business School and the chief marketing officer at AirBnB, has been named as one of the business education world’s Influential Leaders 2016.

The prestigious Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) is a global business education network and association. Founded in 1916, AACSB has more than 1,500 member organisations in over 90 countries and territories, with headquarters in North America, Asia Pacific, and Europe.

Nominated by the Business School, Mildenhall was one of 30 individuals selected at the Annual Accreditation Conference in Minneapolis. The graduate was recognised for his innovative spirit and having a positive impact on business and society.

The business leader graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University in 1990 with a degree in Business and Finance. In 2008, he received an Honorary Doctorate in Business Administration from the University. Professor Julia Clarke, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Dean of the Faculty of Business and Law, said: “Jonathan has gone from strength to strength in his career. His progression in the business, creative and advertising world is inspiring to see.

“We are very proud that Jonathan is an alumnus of Manchester Metropolitan University Business School and delighted that he has received this recognition which is so well-deserved.”

At Airbnb, Mildenhall is helping to create one of the world’s first community-driven super brands. Prior to this, he was vice president for global advertising strategy and content excellence for The Coca-Cola Company for six years. In the past, Mildenhall has worked on some of the world’s largest brands, including Audi, Smirnoff, Vauxhall and Sony Playstation.

Thomas R Robinson, president and chief executive officer of AACSB International, said: “The 2016
Influential Leaders illustrates how the power of a business degree goes beyond industries, reaching lives in every part of the world-pioneering change, fostering global exchange.”

Robinson added: “I would like to thank Jonathan for exemplifying how business graduates
can be a positive force in society, and congratulate Manchester Metropolitan University’s Business School for their role in helping to develop the knowledge, skills, and fortitude needed to address some of the toughest challenges we face today.”

Earlier this year, Mildenhall was named in the Financial Times’ top 100 Upstanding Leaders list, a collection of leading ethnic minority executives in the US and UK.

Posted on: 18/10/2016 09:56 AM

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